Eighteen American citizens are under strict quarantine at a medical facility in Nebraska after being exposed to a dangerous form of hantavirus on the MV Hondius cruise ship. Authorities took this action because three passengers died from the Andes virus strain during the trip, leading to an emergency response from health agencies.

The ship arrived in Rotterdam, where Dutch health workers started a deep cleaning process. The MV Hondius had travelled in places where the virus is common before the outbreak. Agencies are now working together to trace everyone who may have had contact.

This virus is a concern because it can spread from person to person. The observation period for those quarantined is 42 days, as the virus can remain hidden without symptoms. Health officials are monitoring the situation to stop wider transmission.